Hey, I got a ‘riddle’ for you! Which part of the world where you could stand on 2 Continents at the same time? The photo I posted of me in a world-famous mosque is clearly a hint you guys! winks Yes, it’s none other than Turkey (the city of Istanbul to be exact)!
I visited the 1,500-year-old Hagia Sophia (In English, its translated as ‘Holy Wisdom’) back in 2020 when it was still a museum, and on the same year, roughly 6 months after the visit, Hagia Sophia was stripped of its museum status, and reconverted to a mosque. It was originally established as a Christian Basilica (a cathedral) in Constantinople (Constantinople is now known as Istanbul) during the Byzantine empire, and later turned into a mosque following the conquest by the Ottomans. The decision for its reconversion in 2020, sparked a debate among leaders. Different perspectives were raised with differing opinions and views but lets just leave it at that as this post is dedicated to sharing with everyone the magnificent construction and images of Hagia Sophia.
Hagia Sophia, is just…spectacular. The grand dome, being the most prominent feature, had to undergo necessary reconstruction and restoration, and works were still ongoing during my visit. The walls, the ceilings were decorated with both Christian and Muslim artworks, with beautiful gigantic marble pillars. Icons and paintings of the Virgin Mary and infant Christ could be seen side-by-side with Islamic huge calligraphic medallions or roundels bearing in Arabic the names of Allah, Muhammad, his two grandsons and the first four Caliphates. These medallions apparently were intended to be removed when the mosque was converted into a museum. However, they couldn’t go through the doors (Source: https://hagiasophiaturkey.com/calligraphic-roundels/).
Such artwork and decorations is an interesting mixture between two religion. It provides us insights on Hagia’s Sophia’s complex history, and it too provides us a glimpse of the political and religious currents of present-day Turkey. So if you’re planning a visit to this stunning country, the Hagia Sophia should definitely be part of your must-see-attraction list! Though it has now became a fully functioning mosque, visitors are still allowed to visit including all non-Muslims. Just remember to follow the dress-code, and the visiting hours, as a sign of respect.
